Oscar Davies, barrister at Garden Court Chambers, secured a £56,000 settlement for a senior employee in a dispute with an international drinks retailer, following allegations of workplace discrimination, unfair treatment and health-related detriment.
The claimant, a queer woman of colour with over 16 years of unblemished service, had been a recognised leader in the company’s diversity and inclusion work. Despite having led multiple internal inclusion initiatives, she faced a sharp downturn in support and advancement opportunities following a change in manager. She later reported being marginalised, subjected to disproportionate disciplinary proceedings and placed on a performance improvement plan shortly after returning from stress-related sick leave.
Oscar was instructed on a public access basis from the outset of the matter and supported the client throughout the grievance process and settlement negotiations. Drawing on extensive experience in employment and discrimination law, Oscar’s representation enabled the client to resolve the matter without the need to issue a claim in the Employment Tribunal, securing a £56,000 settlement.
The client said:
“From our very first conversation, Oscar demonstrated not only a deep understanding of the professional and personal challenges I was facing, but also a genuine sense of empathy that made me feel safe and supported. I felt able to open up, and with that trust, Oscar guided me in navigating those experiences and translating them into clear, legal actions. Oscars expertise and experience were especially evident during the negotiation process, which led to a successful resolution. I’m truly grateful to have found Oscar and absolutely delighted with the outcome of the case.”
The settlement, which was reached without admission of liability, reflects the seriousness of the concerns raised, including the impact on the claimant’s career progression and mental health.
“I was pleased to support my client in achieving this dignified resolution,” said Oscar Davies. “She has made a significant contribution to promoting inclusion within her industry, and it was important that this was recognised. This outcome demonstrates the value of early, rights-focused negotiation, especially in complex cases involving discrimination and health.”
“There is still a long way to go in ensuring queer professionals, especially women and people of colour, are not only represented but respected and supported at senior levels. I am proud to stand alongside those challenging injustice where it occurs.”
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the workplace, particularly when raising concerns about inclusion or facing reprisals after periods of ill health. It also underscores the critical importance of embedding genuine diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) into workplace culture, not only as a legal obligation but as a driver of dignity, retention and wellbeing. Tokenistic approaches to DE&I risk marginalising the very individuals such initiatives are intended to support.
This case follows a series of recent high-profile resolutions involving diversity-related employment claims, highlighting growing scrutiny of internal practices in large organisations.
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